Energy Action Month: From Cooling to Heating

  
Ramona Madhosingh-Hector, Urban Sustainability Agent  
Greg Plantamura, Energy Educator  

Isn’t Florida life great? Our out-of-state friends envy our beautiful beaches, parks and sunshine. But did you know that Florida burns more petroleum to produce electricity than any other state?

Since we depend so much on air conditioning in the summer, it’s not surprising that Florida’s residential electricity demand is so high. For residents who cool their homes by opening windows, electric heat is still needed in the winter. Even when your heating and cooling system is running at its most efficient, it can often amount to 40% of your electric bill. Floridians’ home power consumption makes up 6% of all electricity consumed in the USA and the average Florida home spends about $1593 per year.

As winter approaches, it’s time to inspect your home heating system. If your system isn’t well maintained, it has to work harder and use more energy to keep you comfortable. The cost of a routine inspection is often less costly than repairs in the long run.

Would you like to learn more ways to consume less energy without sacrificing your level of comfort? In celebration of Energy Action Month, the Pinellas Energy Efficiency Project (PEEP) is offering FREE classes throughout October. You will learn how to reduce your home energy bill and receive free energy saving devices that will help you save money . The energy tote bag contains LED light bulbs, an indoor/outdoor wireless thermometer, and a “smart strip” surge protector.

Register at www.pinellascountyextension.org

• Tuesday October 2 at 1 p.m.
  at Clearwater Public Library 
• Saturday October 13 at 10 a.m.
  at Brooker Creek Preserve 
• Tuesday October 16 at 1 p.m.
  at Pinellas County Extension’s Largo office 
• Wednesday October 17 at 6 p.m.
  at Dunedin Public Library 
• Wednesday October 24 at 3:30 p.m.
  at Palm Harbor Public Library 
• Saturday October 27 at 10 a.m.
  at Weedon Island Preserve

If you can’t make it to one of these classes, invite PEEP to do a presentation at your civic group, clubhouse or church. For more information, call 727-582-2097.